Young People Urged To Avoid Dangerous Situations

The thought of six long weeks with no school may sound idyllic – but with time on your hands, doing the same old things every day can soon become boring.

However, as part of our Stay Safe Over Summer campaign, Humberside Police are urging young people to think twice before putting themselves in danger in pursuit of a bit of excitement.

Sgt James Main, from the force Youth Engagement team, said: “There’s plenty going on across the force area for young people of all ages and with a wide range of interests to get involved with.

“There’s no need to put your life – and the lives of your friends – in danger by taking unnecessary risks.

“If you want to find out what is going on in your area, visit our Stay Safe Over Summer page.”

As temperatures rise, it is can be tempting to try and cool off by taking a dip.

Across the Humberside Force area, there are a number of rivers, lakes and coastal waters.

But while they may seem ideal locations for a spot of swimming, jumping into open water can lead to tragedy.

There are a number of locations across the force which often attract people looking to cool off.

Among them is Hull Marina, where the danger posed by swimming was highlighted in April 2008 when a man died after getting into difficulties after going into the water with two friends.

Sgt Craig Nixon, Pc Allan Cowley and Pc Gareth Walker received a Royal Humane Society Award for bravery after they went to the aid of the trio.

They were able to rescue two of the men, with the assistance of Humberside Fire and Rescue. Sadly, the third man – Simon Peter Wood, 40 – died at Hull Royal Infirmary.

Inspector Lee Edwards from Riverside NPT said: “Hull Marina is not a safe place for people to swim and anyone entering the water is putting themselves and others at risk. I would urge people to think before they act, as their actions could end in tragedy.

“There are numerous risks, including the water temperature and the presence of hidden obstructions beneath the surface. We will be regularly patrolling the Hull Marina area to help combat anti-social behaviour and to ensure people don’t put themselves at risk.”

If you are heading for the beach, make sure you follow these basic safety guidelines:

Only ever swim between red and yellow flags, as these are the areas patrolled by lifeguards on those beaches that have them.
Think twice about using inflatables in the water – as it is easy for them to be blown out to sea quickly.
If there’s an orange windsock flying, it’s especially dangerous.
Be aware of tide times, to ensure you don’t get cut off.
Supervise younger children.
Trespassing on railway lines can also lead to tragic consequences.

A spokesman for British Transport Police said: “Trespass may not sound like a serious offence but, it can be a major safety hazard.

“Up to 60 people are killed on the railway every year by crossing the tracks, taking short cuts or playing chicken.

“Trains can travel at 125 mph and take the length of 20 football pitches to stop. If you are in the way the train won’t stop – the driver will not see you until it’s too late.

“Vandals putting obstructions in front of trains, hanging concrete blocks from bridges and throwing stones are sadly daily occurrences. These crimes can lead to serious injury or death and can even derail trains.”